Generally, stalking involves the crime in which a person (stalker) engages in conduct on more than one occasion directed at another person (victim) with the intent or knowledge that the conduct places the victim in reasonable fear of death, criminal sexual assault, or bodily injury, to the victim or the victim’s family or household member. Depending on the jurisdiction involved, the crime of stalking may be a misdemeanor or a felony. If found guilty, the stalker may be ordered not to have contact with the   victim or the victim's family or household member. The victim of a stalking may also have important civil remedies including compensatory and punitive damages. Stalking is fundamentally an invasion of a person’s privacy, and can involve the infliction of emotional distress.

Legal claims involving stalking can involve complex legal, factual and evidentiary issues. The following are a few important considerations when evaluating a stalking claim.

• What are the facts and circumstances of your stalking claim?

• When did you first believe that you were being stalked?

• Have you kept a record of all incidents in which the person has contacted you?

• Has the person made any threats to you or your family’s safety?

• Do you have any documents from the person?

• Have you changed your telephone number to an unlisted number?

• Did you save any voice mail messages from the person?

• Do you have any e-mail messages from the person?

• Why are you in fear for your safety?

• Did you call the police?

• Did you take out a criminal warrant?

• Do you know the stalker?

• What is your relationship with the stalker?

• Did you give the stalker any warnings not to contact you?

• Do you know if the person has been accumulating person information about you?

• Have you checked inquires to your credit?

• Do you know if the person has engaged similar behavior?

• Does the person have a criminal record?

• What was the result of any criminal action?

• Does the person have any assets or money in the event of a successful claim?

It is important that an experienced legal team evaluates any stalking claim Complex legal and safety issues may be involved. If you, a friend, or loved one are the victim of a stalker, you should take immediate steps to protect your or their interest. Always call the police. Document all events. Do not compromise your rights by making statements to the press, potential defendants, or their representatives. Call us immediately. We are here to help. At Larry King, P.C., we recognize the unique issues pertaining to stalking cases. You can call us at (757) 595-8100 seven days a week, 24 hours a day, everyday of the year. We also offer a free legal-infoline service, and you can now contact us on this web site by using our   Contact form. We are committed to doing the extra things it takes to help our clients. If you would like to know more, make a selection from the above box.